The local take
Mid-morning brings esmorzar, a break for a hefty sandwich, a drink and a coffee at the neighborhood bar. Lunch is the time for paella, the region's own dish, along with arroz meloso and fideuà, often near the beach. Evenings turn to tapas: cured ham, tinned seafood, patatas bravas, fried squid and a vermouth on a terrace. Ciutat Vella has the classic taverns and market counters, Russafa leans modern with chef-driven fusion and vegan kitchens, and El Cabanyal, the old fishermen's quarter by the sea, keeps its traditional bodegas.
In summer, cool off with horchata, the sweet tiger nut drink. The local guide who recommends each spot explains why in a short note, and the chips sort the list into tapas, casual spots, fine dining or food markets.
TapasCasualAmor Amargo
Located in the heart of the Mercat de Russafa, Amor Amargo is a modern tavern renowned for both its tapas and main courses.
Valencia, RussafaRecommended by David N.
TapasCasualArandinos Tapas Valencia
If you want to get tapas where the locals go, try Arandinos Tapas Valencia in Ciutat Vella.
Valencia, Ciutat VellaRecommended by David N.
CasualBalansiya
Balansiya in Beteró is one of the most popular Arab restaurants in the city.
Valencia, AlgirósRecommended by Elena P.
TapasCasualBar Cassalla
Craving a taste of Valencian tradition?
Valencia, ExtramursRecommended by David N.
TapasCasualBar Cremaet
The same owners of Bar Mistela also opened this popular spot.
Valencia, Camins al GrauRecommended by David N.
TapasCasualBar & Kitchen
Bar & Kitchen is a popular, modern spot to get tapas and casual meals in Ciutat Vella.
Valencia, Ciutat VellaRecommended by Elena P.
TapasCasualBar Mistela
This Valencian restaurant serves lunchtime set menus and a menú del dia, featuring typical dishes of the region.
Valencia, TorrefielRecommended by David N.
TapasCasualBar Ricardo
Bar Ricardo specializes in cocina de mercado — crafting dishes from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Valencia, ExtramursRecommended by David N.
CasualBarX by Ricard Camarena
Famous Valencian chef Ricard Camarena is behind BarX in L’Eixample.
Valencia, L'EixampleRecommended by David N.
TapasCasualBirlibirloque Bar
Considered the "little brother" of Entrevins restaurant, Birlibirloque Bar in Ciutat Vella is a gastrobar with an upscale, cosmopolitan vibe and a diverse tapas menu served with…
Valencia, Ciutat VellaRecommended by David N.
TapasCasualBodega Anyora
This neighborhood restaurant is a great place to stop and enjoy some tapas on the terrace with friends.
Valencia, El CabanyalRecommended by Elena P.
CasualBodega La Pascuala
This lunchtime staple is a must-visit if you're hanging out by the beach.
Valencia, El CabanyalRecommended by David N.
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